Cyrtochilum gargantua

Also known as: The Dreadful Cyrtochilum or Cyrtochilum bismarckii Cyrtochilum aciculatum Oncidium bismarckii in the subfamily: Epidendroideae

Native to: Cajamarca - Peru Ecuador

General Information

The Dreadful Cyrtochilum is a cold to cool growing epiphytic orchid belonging to the sub family Epidendroideae native to Peru and Ecuador.

Plant Description

Each new growth has numerous erect arching leaves that grow to 2-43cm long. Pseudobulbs grow to 7-10cm

Care Notes

These orchids have a fine root system that can quickly die back if left dry for too long, but also does not like to be kept wet, so water regularly but ensure that the mix is dry before watering. 

Climate

Grows at high elevations. Rainfall ranges from 0mm to 147mm per day, heaviest in September and lightest in January. Humidity ranges from 55% to 69%, highest in September and lowest in February. Temperature ranges from 2C to 20C, highest in February (6C to 20C) and lowest in January (2C to 18C).

Watering

These orchids prefer a wet-dry cycle between waterings, they should be watered frequently but only when the moisture is approaching dryness, where the pot feels light and/or the media looks dry. Keep an eye on mounted orchids in warm weather as they may dehydrate quickly.

Fertiliser

These plants do well with slow release fertiliser at the rate of 2-3 pellets per cup (250ml) of media. Additional fertiliser during the growth period may be beneficial, but not necessary.

Potting

These plants are quite forgiving and will do well repotted ever 2-3 years. The mix should be coarse, well draining, and allow space for air to move and for roots to grow. 

Alternatively, these plants will also do well mounted to tree fern or cork slabs, or mounted to trees.

Best time for repotting or mounting the orchids is the end of winter when new growths start to appear. Avoid repotting during hot weather,